Glossary
Health Terms beginning with "C"
CA-125 blood test
A test to detect the level of tumor marker called CA-125. This test is not definitive.
Calcifications
Deposits of lime or other insoluble calcium salts. Abnormal calcium deposits can be seen in many breast conditions. Some calcifications seen on a mammogram may be clearly associated with benign processes, and other types have a high association with breast cancer.
Calcitonin
A medication approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration to treat osteoporosis.
Calcitriol
Topical calcitriol may be an effective treatment for localized scleroderma. Studies are focusing on oral calcitriol as a therapy for both systemic and localized scleroderma.
Calcium
A naturally occurring mineral that is essential to bone health and thought to greatly reduce PMS symptoms.
Calcium channel blockers (CCBs)
These drugs relax blood vessels and are used for high blood pressure and chest pain. Note: One type of CCB, fast-acting nifedipine, has been implicated as a cause of heart attacks. It is unclear whether other CCBs are also risky. Discuss the matter with your health care professional if you receive a CCB prescription.
Calipers
An instrument with bent or curved legs used for measuring the thickness or diameter of a solid, such as a skin fold.
Calorie
Unit of measurement that represents the amount of energy the body is able to get from foods. Different nutrients in foods provide different amounts of calories. Carbohydrates and protein provide about four calories per gram, while fat (both saturated and unsaturated) yields about nine calories per gram. The higher the calories, the more energy the food contains. A typical calorie count for a sedentary woman is 1,600 per day.
Cancer
A general term for more than 100 diseases that are characterized by uncontrolled, abnormal cell growth. Cancer cells can spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system to other parts of the body.
Cancer predisposition testing
A test that looks for mutations in a gene whose dysfunction is known to be linked to a higher risk of cancer. A positive result does not guarantee a person will develop cancer but indicates a substantially higher risk than that faced by those without a mutation. Testing is available for predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer, various colon cancers, and some rarer cancers.
Cannula
A small tube that is inserted into a body cavity or duct. For liposuction, it is attached to a vacuum and inserted into the fat layer beneath the skin.
Capillaries
Tiny vessels that connect the tiny branches of the arteries to the tiny branches of the veins. This is where the oxygen and nutrients go out into the tissues that need them, and in return, carbon dioxide (CO2) and waste products are put in the blood to be carried back to the lungs and be exhaled or removed from the body in another way.
Capsaicin
A topical cream that blocks pain messages to the brain. Sometimes, however, it may cause a burning feeling and temporarily worsen the pain before relieving it.
Carbohydrate
One of the nutrients that supplies calories to the body. Carbohydrates may be simple or complex. Complex carbohydrates, also called starch and fiber, come from plants and can be found in whole-grain breads, cereals, pasta, rice, dried peas and beans, corn, lima beans, fruits, and vegetables.
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
A class of drugs used to treat glaucoma by reducing the amount of aqueous humor the eye produces. Available for many years as oral medications, these drugs now are also available in eyedrop form.
Carcinogen
A substance that causes cancer. For example, nicotine in cigarettes is a carcinogen that causes lung cancer.
Carcinoma
Cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues lining or covering an organ.
Carcinoma in situ
Cancer that involves only the place where it began and has not spread, such as early, non-invasive breast cancer.
Cardiac arrest
A sudden stopping of heart output; the blood stops flowing and oxygen does not get delivered to vital tissues.
Cardiac arrhythmias
These occur when the heart momentarily beats too fast or irregularly. Chest pain, dizziness and shortness of breath are symptoms. Atherosclerosis, angina, valvular heart disease, blood clots, thyroid abnormalities or heart attack can cause this condition. Arrhythmias may be frequent or infrequent. Medications can help stabilize heart rhythms. Abstaining from caffeine, alcohol and cigarette smoking can also help.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Medical procedures used to restart a patient's heart and breathing when the patient suffers from heart failure. CPR may involve simple efforts such as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and external chest compression. Advanced CPR may involve electric shock, insertion of a tube to open the patient's airway, injection of medication into the heart, and, in extreme cases, open-chest heart massage.
Cardiovascular
Referring to the heart and blood vessels.
Cardiovascular exercise
Sustained activity that increases the heart rate, strengthening the cardiovascular system.
Cardiovascular fitness
The state or health of your heart, lungs and blood flow and how effectively they use oxygen to produce energy; can be improved by cardiovascular exercise.
Carotid artery stenting
A procedure that involves the insertion of an expanding metal scaffold (stent) into the neck artery after widening it with balloon dilation.
Carotid endarterectomy
surgery performed in the neck to clean out and remove a carotid plaque to prevent a stroke.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
A disorder caused by compression of a nerve in the wrist; characterized by discomfort, pain, numbness and muscular weakening; often caused by repetitive motion.
Carrier
Genes come in pairs and many genetic diseases manifest only when both genes are mutated. A person who has one good copy of a disease-causing gene and one mutated copy is said to be a carrier. A carrier does not develop the disease, but if two carriers of the same disease-causing gene have a child, the child has a 25 percent chance of inheriting two mutations and thus developing the disease.
Cartilage
A tough, stretchy tissue that covers the ends of bones to form a low-friction, shock-absorbing surface for joints.
Cataplexy
Sudden episodes of loss of muscle function, ranging from slight weakness to complete body collapse; a symptom of narcolepsy.
Cataracts
A condition believed to be age-related in which the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy making it difficult to read, drive and so on.
Catatonic behaviors
These behaviors are characterized by a significant decrease in how an individual responds to his or her immediate environment. An individual with this symptom might appear motionless or assume stiff or strange postures.
Catheter
A thin flexible tube used for various procedures. It can be inserted through the urethra into the bladder to drain urine. People who use catheters long-term are at risk for urinary tract infections. It also can be inserted into a vein to give drugs, fluids, nutrients or blood products, or to withdraw blood, and it can be used in procedures to evaluate the heart.
Catheterization
An evaluation of the heart in which a health care professional places a thin, flexible tube (or catheter) through a blood vessel in your arm, leg or neck and then threads it into the right ventricle and pulmonary artery.
CAT scan
A series of x-rays that produce images of cross sections of body tissues.
CD4 (T4 or CD4 cells)
A type of white blood cell that helps protect against viral, fungal and protozoal infections. These cells normally orchestrate the immune response, signaling other cells in the immune system to perform their special functions. Also known as T helper cells. A CD4 cell count indicates the health of the immune system.
Celiac disease
An intolerance to wheat gluten in foods. It can lead to seizures and other symptoms.
Cellulite
The irregular dimpling of skin over fat.
Central nervous system
The part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord, and which coordinates the activity of the entire nervous system.
Central nervous system stimulants
Substances that speed up the activity of the central nervous system, the part of the body including the brain and spinal cord that serves as the main network of coordination and control for the entire body.
Central sleep apnea
A serious, potentially life-threatening disorder characterized by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep caused by the brain failing to send the appropriate signals to the breathing muscles to initiate respirations; much less common than obstructive sleep apnea.
Cerebral blood flow
The flow of blood through the arteries that lead to the brain, called the cerebrovascular system.
Cerebrospinal fluid
Fluid that fills the ventricles of the brain and surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
Cerebrovascular disease
A reduction in the blood supply to the brain either by narrowing of the arteries through plaque buildup on the inside walls of the arteries, called stenosis, or through blockage of an artery by a blood clot.
Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)
A health care professional who is certified by the American Association of Diabetes Educators to teach people with diabetes how to manage their condition. The health care team for diabetes should include a diabetes educator, preferably a CDE.
Cervical cap
A smaller version of the diaphragm, this rubber cap fits over the cervix to block sperm. Women who want to use a cervical cap must have it made to fit them exactly.
Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
This is a common precancerous form of dysplasia (abnormal cell development). Removing the uterus and cervix was once standard practice for treating CIN. Effective treatments, including excising, burning, or freezing the diseased portion of the cervix, are generally recommended for CIN instead of hysterectomy, depending on the severity and location of the disorder, age, clinical status and a woman's interest in preserving her childbearing ability.
Cervicitis
Inflammation of the cervix that may be caused by gonorrhea or chlamydia infection. About half of women have symptoms, the most common being vaginal discharge and bleeding.
Cervix
The doughnut-shaped gateway between the vagina and the uterus. The cervix is coated with mucus, which can be thick or thin, depending on a woman's monthly hormone levels. Because of its anatomical position, it is an easy target for infection.
Cesarean section
Surgical delivery of a baby through an incision in the abdomen.
Cessation
To temporarily or finally stop something, such as smoking.
Chemical peels
Health care professionals use several types of acids to chemically peel the skin. Some of the most common are lactic, glycolic and salicylic acids.
Chemotherapy
Use of any one or a combination of various anticancer drugs shown to be effective in treating breast cancer.
Chi
(Pronounced chee) A Chinese concept of spirit, vital energy or life force.
Chiropractic
A system of health care based on the concept that health and disease are related to musculoskeletal and/or nervous system function. Many disorders, chiropractors believe, are the result of misalignments (subluxations) of the spinal vertebrae or other joints. Chiropractors focus on spinal manipulation and adjustment, addressing misalignments of the vertebrae to restore normal structural balance and/or health.
Chiropractor
One who practices chiropractic health care.
Chlamydia
A common sexually transmitted disease caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. The bacterium can be transmitted during vaginal, oral or anal sexual contact with an infected person. More than 1 million new cases occur in the United States each year. If left untreated, chlamydia can cause infertility.
Chloroquine
Antimalarial drug often prescribed for lupus. Low doses of antimalarial drugs can control a variety of symptoms—arthritis, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, fatigue and fever. Their use takes patience, since it may take weeks or months for them to take effect.
Cholesterol
This fat-like substance is found in whole-milk dairy products, egg yolks and meat. The liver also produces cholesterol, which is necessary for certain cell functions. Cholesterol levels are measured by a simple blood test. High cholesterol levels are strongly linked with heart disease. A desirable total cholesterol level for adults without heart disease is less than 200 milligrams per deciliter of blood. Cholesterol travels in the blood in packages called lipoproteins. Two important ones are HDL, which is protective, and LDL, which is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Medication can help control high cholesterol; dietary restrictions and exercise can also help to achieve a healthier ratio between HDLs and LDLs. Individuals with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) should aim for LDL cholesterol levels of less than 100, often less than 70 mg/dL, to avoid heart attack and stroke.
Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
A class of medications that works to lower elevated cholesterol levels by inhibiting absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, which results in less cholesterol being delivered through the large intestine to the liver, where it is synthesized. Statins, another class or medications that lower cholesterol, work by reducing cholesterol synthesis in the liver.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
A sample of chorionic villi, the fetal blood vessels that form part of the placenta, is removed and analyzed for this test. It's done between 10 and 12 weeks of pregnancy. The test is usually offered for chromosomal screening to look for birth defects. There is a slightly higher risk of miscarriage as result of a CVS compared to an amniocentesis.
Chromosome
Genetic material is organized into genes, and genes are organized along chromosomes, long threadlike strands of DNA residing in the nucleus of every cell. Humans normally have 23 pairs of chromosomes, with one set contributed by each parent.
Chronic
A disease of slow progress and long duration.
Chronic back pain
Back pain that lasts more than three months
Chronic depression
Symptoms similar to major depression, but they are milder and last for at least two years; also called dysthymia.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
A condition of prolonged and severe tiredness or fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is not directly caused by other conditions. The exact cause of CFS is unknown. Some researchers suspect a virus may cause it, although no distinct viral cause has been identified. Symptoms of CFS are much like symptoms of most common viral infections (muscle aches, headache and fatigue); symptoms often develop within a few hours or days and can last for months or years.
Chronic insomnia
Insomnia that occurs on most nights and lasts a month or more.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Certain diseases that involve a persistent blockage of the air passages in the lungs, such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Chronic pain
Constant pain that lasts for at least three months. May not have an obvious cause and may be disabling, affecting daily life. Chronic pain can cause fatigue, concentration problems and appetite changes and may lead to suppression of the immune system, depression, anxiety and even suicide.
Chronic renal failure
Slow and progressive loss of kidney function over several years, often resulting in end-stage renal disease. People with end-stage renal disease need dialysis or transplantation to replace the work of the kidneys.
Chronic sinusitis
Swelling of the sinuses with symptoms that last longer than 12 weeks despite treatment.
Cilia
Microscopic hairs on the surface of the sinus membranes that help move mucus out of the sinuses.
Ciliary body
A tiny gland that produces the aqueous humor.
Circadian rhythm disorder
A disruption of the body's natural biological or psychological rhythms, often a result of non-traditional work hours or jet lag.
Cirrhosis
Liver disease characterized by the breakdown and scarring of the organ, causing swelling, pain and jaundice.
Cisapride
A prescription medication used to treat gastric reflux.
Claustrophobia
The fear of closed spaces.
Clinical breast exam
The manual examination of the breasts performed by a healthcare professional.
Clinical depression
One of a group of conditions known as affective or mood disorders. There are several types of clinical depression including major depression, dysthymia and manic depressive illness.
Clinical psychologist
Has a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and training in counseling, psychotherapy and psychological testing.
Clinical social worker
Also called a psychiatric social worker. This health care professional has an advanced degree in social work and is trained in counseling and psychotherapy. Social workers are also trained in family dynamics and family therapy and client-centered advocacy, including information, referral, and direct intervention with governmental and civic agencies.
Clinical trial
A study to answer a specific scientific question. It includes human participants and is designed to find better ways to diagnose, prevent and treat a disease. A clinical trial is one stage of a thorough research process.
Clitoris
A small organ located near the opening of the vagina that is a sensitive source of sexual excitement.
Clomiphene citrate
Oral fertility drug sold under the brand name Clomid or Serophene in the U.S. that is often effective in counteracting the hormonal imbalances that make women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) unable to conceive.
Clomipramine
A type of antidepressant sometimes prescribed to treat cataplexy, hypnagogic hallucinations and sleep paralysis.
Clonic seizures
Seizures that cause repeated jerking movements of muscles on both sides of the body.
Clotrimazole
An antifungal medication available in some over-the-counter preparations to treat vaginal yeast infections.
Cluster headaches
Headaches that involve excruciating pain in one part of the head, usually behind or around one eye. Cluster headaches are rare.
COBRA
Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1985, this is a federal law that requires an employer-sponsored group health insurance policy to be continued for up to 18 months after you leave the company under certain conditions.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy
A form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying distorted perceptions, changing those perceptions and discovering new patterns of actions and behaviors. It stems from the belief that emotional disorders are caused by irrational yet habitual forms of thinking; these patterns are viewed as behaviors that the therapist can try to help the patient change.
Cognitive complaints
When patients complain that they are not able to think normally, for example they are forgetful or unable to concentrate.
Cognitive impairment
Deterioration or loss of memory, concentration, and ability to reason.
Cognitive therapy
A form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying distorted perceptions, changing those perceptions and discovering new patterns of actions and behaviors. It stems from the belief that emotional disorders are caused by irrational yet habitual forms of thinking; these patterns are viewed as behaviors that the therapist can try to help the patient change.
Coinsurance
The amount you are required to pay for medical care in a fee-for-service plan after you have met your deductible. The coinsurance rate is usually expressed as a percentage, such as 20 percent of the claim.
Coinsurance limit
This is the maximum amount of money you'll have to pay out of pocket for medical expenses not covered by your health insurance plan.
Collagen
A fibrous protein that is one of the main building blocks of skin, tendon, bone, cartilage and other connective tissues and that provides support and elasticity to the skin.
Colon
The large intestine that ends in the anus. It is responsible for extracting water from undigested food, storing it and then eliminating it from the body during a bowel movement.
Colon cancer
Cancerous or malignant tumor(s) found in the colon and/or rectum.
Colonoscopy
This test is similar to a flexible sigmoidoscopy (a thin flexible tube is inserted in the anus to view the colon), but it provides a view of the entire colon and allows the health care professional to perform a biopsy or polypectomy at a single setting; the procedure typically is performed in a hospital or physician's office, and the patient is given a sedative to alleviate discomfort.
Colostomy
When a malignant tumor is located so far down in the rectum that there is nothing to reattach the colon to after the tumor has been removed, the surgeon will remove the rectum during this surgical procedure and make a new opening in the abdomen (called a stoma) to eliminate bodily waste; on average, about 10 percent of those people diagnosed with colon cancer need a colostomy.
Colposcopy
An exam that allows closer inspection of your cervix. A special microscope—a colposcope—is used to magnify the cervix and identify the location, size and area of abnormal cells.
Comedocarcinoma
One type of intraductal cancer. It fills the ducts with tumor plugs before invading duct walls.
Complex partial seizures
Seizures in which only one part of the brain is affected, but the person has a change in or loss of consciousness.
Compulsion
An irresistible impulse to perform an irrational act.
Computed axial tomography (CAT) scan
A rapid and safe x-ray-like test that provides high-grade images for diagnostic purposes. A health care professional takes pictures in small sequential slices, so when they are reassembled by a computer, the image can show multiple planes. This can be done on an outpatient basis.
Computed tomographic (CT) scan
Produces images of the brain that show variations in the density of different types of tissue. The scan enables the health care professional to distinguish, for example, between a bleeding blood vessel in the brain and a brain tumor. The CT scan is an important diagnostic tool in cases of headache associated with brain lesions or other serious disease.
Computed tomography (CT)
Produces images of the brain that show variations in the density of different types of tissue. The scan enables the health care professional to distinguish, for example, between a bleeding blood vessel in the brain and a brain tumor. The CT scan is an important diagnostic tool in cases of headache associated with brain lesions or other serious disease.
Concerta
An extended-release formulation of methylphenidate tablets for ADHD treatment that is designed to last 12 hours with just one morning dose.
Condom
The male condom is a sheath designed to cover the penis to prevent conception or infection. It is usually made of latex rubber but occasionally of lamb instestines or polyurethane. Some have spermicide or lubricants added, though neither has been proven to provide additional protection from contraception or sexually transmitted diseases. The female condom is a lubricated polyurethane sheath. The closed end has a flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina, while the open end stays outside and partially covers the labia.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Caused by insufficient production of an essential chemical called cortisol. This genetic condition can result in hyperandrogenic symptoms in childhood, such as facial hair and acne at an early age, but mild cases may go undiagnosed.
Congenital hypothyroidism
Inability to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormone. Newborns in most states are screened for the disorder, which can lead to slow growth and development, including mental retardation.
Conjugated estrogens
A mixture of different estrogens incorporated into estrogen or hormone replacement therapies.
Conjunctiva
The thin, clear layer of tissue on the eye that covers the white outer surface of the eye.
Connective tissue
The supporting framework of the body and the internal organs including bone, cartilage and ligaments.
Constipation
A change in normal bowel habits such as a decrease in the frequency of stool (body's waste product), passage of hard, dry stools or difficulty in passage of the stool.
Contact dermatitis
An inflammation of the skin or a rash that can produce tiny fluid-filled blisters. It's a common response to allergens such as poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac.
Contraception
Methods used to prevent pregnancy. Some methods include condoms, birth control pills, the contraceptive patch, injectable contraception (Depo Provera), sponges, intrauterine devices and spermicides.
Contraceptive
Devices or drugs used to prevent pregnancy.
Contractures
Occur when scar tissue builds up around a breast implant, sometimes causing pain and distortion of the tissue.
Control group
A control group is the standard by which experimental observations are evaluated. In many clinical trials, one group of participants (the experimental group) will be given an experimental drug or treatment, while the control group is given either a standard treatment or a placebo.
Controller medicines
A group of medicines for asthma treatment that are taken daily to prevent inflammation of the airways and reduce any inflammation that may already exist. Inhaled corticosteroids are typically the primary medication prescribed in this category, with other medications sometimes added as well.
Convulsion
A seizure or convulsion can be a sudden, violent, uncontrollable contraction of a group of muscles. A seizure can also be subtler, consisting of only a brief loss of contact or a few moments of what appears to be daydreaming.
Copayment
The amount you are required to pay under an HMO or PPO plan when you receive medical services. The insurance company pays the rest.
Core biopsy
Also called core needle biopsy, or needle core biopsy. A type of breast biopsy where a relatively large bore needle is inserted into the breast under local anesthesia. The thin column of breast tissue that fills the needle is removed and examined.
Cornea
Clear tissue of the outer protective layer of the eye that allows light to enter the eye.
Coronary angiography
Also known as arteriography, this test is used to examine the coronary arteries. A contrast medium, or dye, is injected through a fine tube (catheter) that is put into an artery of an arm or leg and passed through the aorta into the arteries of the heart. The heart and blood vessels are then x-rayed. The picture that is seen, called an angiogram or arteriogram, will show problems such as a blockage caused by atherosclerosis. This is the most accurate way to assess the presence and severity of coronary disease.
Coronary heart disease
A disease of the blood vessels of the heart that, if untreated, can cause heart attacks. Like any muscle, the heart needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients that are carried to it by the blood in the coronary arteries. When these arteries become narrowed or clogged by atherosclerosis and cannot supply enough blood to the heart, the result is coronary heart disease.
Coronary syndrome X
A cardiovascular disease that appears to be caused by the small blood vessels in the heart inadequately dilating. It is not caused by blocked arteries. Post-menopausal women and women who have had hysterectomies are at risk for experiencing symptoms of syndrome X because their declining estrogen may have an impact on the small blood vessels in their hearts. Because this condition is a small vessel disease, it can't be seen on an angiogram. Diagnosis is typically made when nothing else can be found that would cause the symptoms. Special imaging tests, such as PET scanning or MRI, may help with the diagnosis in the future.
Corpus
The main part of a bodily structure or organ, such as the body of the uterus. Corpus also may mean the body of a human or animal, especially when dead.
Corpus callosotomy
Surgery that severs the corpus callosum, the network of neural connections between the right and left hemispheres of the brain.
Corpus luteum
Ovarian tissue formed by a follicle after ovulation. The corpus luteum continues to produce estrogen and progesterone after ovulation.
Corticosteroid
A synthetic version of a natural hormone used to reduce inflammation. Available in pills, as an injection, nasal spray, cream, eyedrop or inhaler.
Corticosteroids
Synthetic or natural hormones that suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation. They can be injected directly into the affected joints or taken orally. The downside to these fast-acting drugs is their side effects, including osteoporosis, acne, weight gain, diabetes, cardiovascular problems and heightened susceptibility to infections; therefore, the dose must be carefully managed.
Cortisol
A hormone produced by the adrenal gland in reaction to stress.
Covered expenses
Most insurance plans do not pay for all services. The ones they do agree to pay for are called covered expenses or services. The ones they don't cover are called exclusions, and you are expected to pay for those services yourself.
COX-2 inhibitors
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (see separate entry) that are targeted more directly at neutralizing an enzyme called COX-2, which triggers pain and inflammation, while sparing an enzyme called COX-1, which helps maintain the normal stomach lining.
Crack
Pre-processed base cocaine in small chips used illicitly, usually for smoking.
Cranial osteopathic medicine
A form of osteopathic manipulative treatment involving gentle pressure to your head.
C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test
Also called high-sensitive CRP, this is a blood test that detects a protein that becomes elevated in response to inflammation, called high sensitivity (hs) C-reactive protein (CRP). It may help health care professionals decide if you are at increased risk for coronary heart disease, heart attack and peripheral arterial disease. Inflammation has long been implicated as a probable contributor to atherosclerosis. Guidelines from the American Heart Association and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend limiting the use of the hs-CRP test only as a discretionary tool for evaluating people of moderate risk and not as a means of screening the entire adult population. Insufficient scientific evidence supports widespread use at this time.
Creatine kinase MB
An enzyme produced by the heart. A blood test measuring this enzyme can detect a heart attack within six hours, allowing for quicker discharge if the incident is not a heart attack.
Creatinine
A waste product from meat protein in the diet and from the muscles of the body. Creatinine is removed from blood by the kidneys. As kidney disease progresses, the level of creatinine in the blood increases.
CREST syndrome
A subset of scleroderma patients with limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis, which is characterized by calcinosis (accumulation of calcium salts under the skin); Raynaud's phenomenon (see separate entry); esophageal dysfunction; sclerodactyly (scleroderma of the fingers or toes); and telangiectasia (tiny blood vessels near the surface of the skin that show through). Patients with CREST syndrome may produce the anticentromere autoantibody.
Cromolyn sodium
A nonprescription nasal spray that is often effective in preventing allergic reactions and asthma. It works by preventing certain cells in the body from releasing substances that can cause allergic reactions. It has few side effects when used as directed but must be used regularly and frequently.
Cryomyolysis
An innovative surgical procedure that uses a freezing probe to laparoscopically destroy small blood vessels that are feeding a fibroid, in a similar manner to myolysis.
Cryotherapy
A procedure in which the cancer cells are frozen to kill them.
Culture
A lab test that can identify what specific organisms are causing infection.
Cushing's syndrome
A condition resulting from overproduction of adrenal hormones. Cushing's is characterized by truncal obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, rounded face, amenorrhea, high blood pressure and easily bruised skin. It may involve weakness and mental abnormalities as well.
Cutaneous allodynia
A condition in which pain results from on the skin or scalp from a source that should not cause pain. For example, pressure from a single strand of hair can feel like a jab with a white-hot knife.
Cycle of violence
A pattern of abusive behavior beginning with a buildup of tension that culminates in a violent incident, after which the abuser apologizes and promises to stop the abuse. Soon the tension begins to build up again, and the cycle continues.
Cyclophosphamide
An immune-modulating drug prescribed for Sjögren's syndrome when there is serious organ involvement. It is a highly effective immune system suppressor but has severe side effects, including low white-blood-cell count and increased cancer risk.
Cyclophotocoagulation
A surgical procedure most often used in advanced or severe cases of glaucoma, in which a laser destroys parts of the ciliary body that produces the aqueous humor fluid. With less fluid flowing through the eye, the intraocular pressure is reduced.
Cylert (pemoline)
Belongs to a group of medicines called central nervous system stimulants. Cylert works by increasing attention and decreasing restlessness in children who are overactive, cannot concentrate for very long or are easily distracted, and are emotionally unstable. Rarely, pemoline has caused serious liver problems.
Cyproheptadine
A drug that counteracts the brain chemical serotonin and is used for the prevention of migraines.
Cyst
A fluid-filled mass, such as a simple breast cyst.
Cystectomy
Surgical removal of the bladder.
Cystic fibrosis
An inherited condition caused by a defect in a gene called CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator gene), which plays an important role in the production of mucus in the lungs and pancreas. Symptoms include respiratory difficulties and infection, digestive problems and sweat that contains too much salt. Many males with CF are infertile.
Cystine stone
A rare form of kidney stone consisting of the amino acid cystine.
Cystitis
An infection of the bladder.
Cystocele
Fallen bladder. When the bladder falls or sags from its normal position down to the pelvic floor, it can cause either urinary leakage or urinary retention.
Cystometry
A test that measures contractions of the bladder muscle as it fills and empties by inserting a catheter through the urethra into the bladder and filling it with water or a gas.
Cystoscope
A tube-like instrument used to look inside the bladder.
Cystoscopy
Examination of the bladder and urinary tract using a telescope-like instrument that permits the health care professional to see inside them.
Cystourethrocele
When the female urethra and its supporting tissues weaken and drop into the vagina.
Cystourethrogram
A special x-ray that allows visualization of the bladder and urethra. A liquid dye is injected into the urethra through a catheter and subsequent x-rays show the anatomy of the bladder and urethra.
Cytoscope
A thin, lighted instrument used to look inside the bladder and remove tissue samples (biopsy) or small tumors.
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